5743.14 Prohibition against hindering inspection. - Ohio Statutes

5743.14 Prohibition against hindering inspection.

(A) The tax commissioner or an agent of the tax commissioner may enter and inspect the facilities and records of a person selling cigarettes or other tobacco products. Such entrance and inspection requires a properly issued search warrant if conducted outside the normal business hours of the person, but does not require a search warrant if conducted during the normal business hours of the person. No person shall prevent or hinder the tax commissioner or an agent of the tax commissioner from carrying out the authority granted under this division.

(B) If a peace officer as defined in section 2935.01 of the Revised Code knows or has reasonable cause to believe that a motor vehicle is transporting cigarettes or other tobacco products in violation of this chapter or section 2927.023 of the Revised Code, the peace officer may stop the vehicle and inspect the vehicle to determine the presence of such cigarettes or other tobacco products.

Effective Date: 07-01-2002; 06-30-2005